What To Know
- You can use a small, flat tool like a plastic spudger or a butter knife to help separate the cover from the watch case.
- The first time you power on your watch after a battery change, you’ll need to set the time and date.
- Replacing the battery in your Garmin Instinct is a straightforward process that can extend the life of your favorite adventure companion.
The Garmin Instinct is a rugged and reliable smartwatch, perfect for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. But like any electronic device, its battery life eventually diminishes, and you’ll need to change the battery. This guide will walk you through the process of how to change Garmin Instinct battery, ensuring you can keep your trusty companion powered up for your next expedition.
Why You Need to Change Your Garmin Instinct Battery
The Garmin Instinct boasts a respectable battery life, but even the most durable batteries eventually wear out. You’ll know it’s time to change your battery when you start noticing:
- Shorter battery life: Your watch drains faster than usual, even after a full charge.
- Battery icon blinking: The battery icon on your watch might start blinking, indicating a low battery level.
- Watch shutting down unexpectedly: Your Instinct might suddenly shut down, even when you think it has enough charge.
Don’t worry, replacing the battery is a relatively simple process that can be done at home.
Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into the battery replacement, ensure you have the following materials:
- A new Garmin Instinct battery: You can purchase these directly from Garmin or from reputable online retailers.
- A small Phillips screwdriver: This will be used to open the back cover of the watch.
- A soft cloth or microfiber towel: This will be helpful for cleaning the watch and preventing scratches.
- A pair of tweezers (optional): Tweezers can help you carefully remove the old battery.
Preparing Your Garmin Instinct
1. Power off your watch: Before you start, ensure your Garmin Instinct is completely powered off. This will prevent any accidental damage to the watch or yourself.
2. Remove the watch band: Carefully remove the watch band from the watch case. Most Garmin Instinct models have spring bars that can be easily removed using a small tool or your fingers.
Opening the Back Cover
1. Locate the screws: The back cover of the Garmin Instinct is usually secured by four small Phillips screws. Locate these screws around the perimeter of the watch case.
2. Unscrew the screws: Carefully unscrew the screws using the Phillips screwdriver. Be sure to keep track of the screws in a safe place to prevent loss.
3. Pry open the back cover: Once the screws are removed, you can gently pry open the back cover. You can use a small, flat tool like a plastic spudger or a butter knife to help separate the cover from the watch case. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as this could damage the watch.
Replacing the Battery
1. Remove the old battery: Once the back cover is removed, you’ll see the battery located inside the watch case. The battery is usually held in place by a small metal tab. Carefully remove the old battery by gently lifting it from the tab.
2. Insert the new battery: Take the new battery and align it with the contacts on the watch case. Gently press the new battery into place, ensuring it sits securely in the battery compartment.
Closing the Watch
1. Replace the back cover: Carefully align the back cover with the watch case and gently press it back into place. Ensure all the edges of the cover are securely fitted.
2. Secure the screws: Once the back cover is in place, screw the four screws back into their original positions. Tighten the screws securely but avoid overtightening, as this could damage the watch case.
3. Reattach the watch band: Finally, reattach the watch band to the watch case, ensuring it’s securely fastened.
Powering Up Your Garmin Instinct
1. Turn on your watch: After replacing the battery, power on your Garmin Instinct by pressing and holding the power button.
2. Set the time and date: The first time you power on your watch after a battery change, you’ll need to set the time and date. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete this process.
3. Enjoy your renewed watch: Your Garmin Instinct is now ready to go! You can start using it as you normally would.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Garmin Instinct Running Strong
Replacing the battery in your Garmin Instinct is a straightforward process that can extend the life of your favorite adventure companion. By following these steps, you can ensure your watch remains reliable and ready for any challenge.
What People Want to Know
Q: How often should I change the battery in my Garmin Instinct?
A: The battery life of your Garmin Instinct depends on various factors, including usage patterns and environmental conditions. Typically, you can expect the battery to last for about 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 54 hours in GPS mode. You should change the battery when you start noticing a significant decrease in battery life or when the battery icon on your watch starts blinking.
Q: Can I use a generic battery instead of a Garmin-branded one?
A: While it’s possible to find generic batteries for the Garmin Instinct, it’s generally recommended to use only genuine Garmin batteries. Using a generic battery could potentially damage your watch or lead to performance issues.
Q: What should I do if I encounter problems while changing the battery?
A: If you encounter any difficulties while replacing the battery, it’s best to contact Garmin customer support for assistance. They can provide you with specific instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Q: Can I damage my Garmin Instinct by changing the battery myself?
A: While changing the battery yourself is generally safe, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and use the correct tools. Applying excessive force or using improper tools could damage the watch. If you’re unsure about the process, it’s best to seek assistance from a qualified technician.
